Flight Lieutenant Towkir Islam Sagar Laid to Rest in Rajshahi

Rajshahi, 22nd July 2025 — Flight Lieutenant Towkir Islam Sagar of the 35th Squadron, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash in Dhaka on Monday, was laid to rest at the Sapura Graveyard in Rajshahi this afternoon. A sombre atmosphere descended upon the city as Towkir’s funeral procession and ceremonies took place.

Funeral Procession and Ceremonies

After the body was flown from Dhaka to Rajshahi, a funeral parade was held in Dhaka, followed by a Namaz-e-Janaza (funeral prayer) at the Dhaka Air Force Base. Towkir’s second Namaz-e-Janaza took place at the Rajshahi Stadium, with an outpouring of grief from relatives, service personnel, administrative officials, police officers, politicians, and local citizens.

A significant number of people from different walks of life gathered to pay their respects to the young pilot who tragically lost his life at such a tender age.

The Tragic Crash

The tragic incident occurred when a Bangladesh Air Force F-7 fighter jet crashed into Milestone School and College in Uttara, Dhaka, on Monday afternoon. The crash, which resulted in Towkir's death, has left the nation in mourning. The loss is particularly felt in Rajshahi, where Towkir was a beloved figure.

The Family's Grief

In Rajshahi, the news of Towkir’s untimely death cast a deep shadow of sadness. From early morning, relatives and well-wishers began gathering at the family’s residence to offer condolences.

Towkir’s family lives in Sector 3, Upashahar, at House No. 223, which is called "Ashroy". His parents, sister, and other relatives were flown in from Dhaka by the Bangladesh Air Force to be present for the funeral and burial.

Towkir’s Early Life and Career

Towkir was an accomplished and determined officer. During his cadet years, he completed his first 100 hours of flight training on the PT-6 aircraft. After completing his training, Towkir served with the 15th Squadron, logging approximately 60 hours of flight time, before joining the 35th Squadron.

His colleagues and fellow officers remember him as a dedicated and skilled pilot who gave his all to his country.

Tributes and Ghaibana Janaza at Rajshahi University

The grief from Towkir's tragic passing was also reflected at Rajshahi University, where the university authorities held a Ghaibana Namaz-e-Janaza (a prayer for the deceased in absentia) in front of the central mosque. This was not only in memory of Towkir Islam Sagar but also for the students of Milestone School and College who lost their lives in the same crash.

A Community in Mourning

The loss of Towkir has not only affected his family and friends but the entire community of Rajshahi and the broader nation. As a young pilot and an officer dedicated to the Bangladesh Air Force, his death is a tragic reminder of the risks that air force personnel face daily while serving their country.

Details of Towkir’s Funeral:

A Nation's Grief

The funeral ceremonies marked the end of an era for a promising pilot and a beloved son, whose tragic death has left an indelible mark on the hearts of his family, friends, and the entire nation. The Bangladesh Air Force, along with the people of Rajshahi, has shown great unity in expressing condolences and offering support to Towkir’s bereaved family.

As the country remembers Towkir Islam Sagar and honours his service, the tragic loss reminds everyone of the ultimate sacrifices made by those in uniform to safeguard the nation.